A smile is an important tool we often use to bond with those around us. But if you face a “gummy smile” condition, especially when laughing and your gums never cooperate, it can turn a bright smile into insecurity… and make you hesitant to smile at anyone again. Therefore, even though a gummy smile is not a serious disease, we should not let it undermine our confidence!
What causes the condition called “gummy smile”?
Many diseases are often found in older people, but on the contrary… the age factor causing gummy smile is often found more in younger people, and as age increases, the gummy smile gradually decreases. This is due to the reduction of facial fat over time according to our age, as well as sagging conditions. From another perspective, a “gummy smile” is not a disadvantage but rather a sign of youthfulness. However, it depends on which type of smile makes us feel more satisfied and confident. Normally, the gum level when we smile is about 3-4 millimeters from the crown of the tooth.
Main causes… that lead to a gummy smile
- Protruding/long upper jaw
- Protruding/long upper front teeth
- Gingival enlargement, which may be related to underlying diseases or medications, such as hypertension or epilepsy
- Incomplete eruption of permanent teeth beyond the gums
- Short upper lip
- Excessive strength of the muscles responsible for smiling
Is the gum level in a smile abnormal? Diagnosis can be done by these methods
- Medical history and related medication review
- Examination of facial structure and jawbone abnormalities
- Analysis of lip function both at rest and while smiling
- Analysis of the positional relationship between lips and teeth
- Analysis of the size, proportion, and alignment of teeth
- Periodontal condition examination
Although not a serious disease, gummy smile can be treated!
- Upper jaw surgery to lift it higher (Orthognathic surgery)
- Orthodontic treatment to push the front teeth and gums upward
- Gum contouring to increase tooth length (Esthetic crown lengthening)
- Surgery to reposition the attachment under the lip
- Botox injections to reduce the activity of the smile muscles
A gummy smile is a cosmetic concern for many patients, and since it can be caused by various factors, the treatment methods differ depending on each patient’s cause. Therefore, accurate diagnosis by a doctor to plan treatment that addresses the specific cause is the key to successful results.
Dr. Pholakorn Buranaprasertsuk
Orthodontic Specialist
Dental Center, Phyathai 2 Hospital
